407.865.8888
Available 24/7 - Complimentary Consultation
 
 
Bond fraud alert: Fraudulent individuals are impersonating bail bond agents in our area. Before posting bond, call us first.

Matthews R. Bark

Attorney Matthews R. Bark

Top Rated Criminal Defense Lawyer

Founder, Orlando

Prior to enrolling in law school, Matthews R. Bark volunteered and interned for Chief Judge Honorable Joyce Baylor-Thompson. Together, Judge Baylor-Thompson and Mr. Bark created the first mediation program for probate in the State of Maryland. (See this Article). Once in law school, at the University of Baltimore School of Law, Mr. Bark decided he wanted to be an advocate for those charged with crimes. Mr. Bark knew in order to be the best, he needed to acquire a variety of skills. That is why he was a teacher’s assistant in the legal writing and research department, reaching the highest position in that program in his last year of law school as the supervisor of all the teacher’s assistants. He also was a legal scholar for the class Torts. Also, while in law school Mr. Bark interned for the State Attorney’s Office in and for Baltimore City, Maryland.

Mr. Bark, also interned for the highest court in the State of Maryland, the Maryland Court of Appeals. Mr. Bark also worked for the House of Representatives, Delegate Jon Cardin, in Maryland. Mr. Bark did all this while maintaining high marks, and graduating with honors, cum laude. Here are a couple of examples of cases from when Mr. Bark was working for the Maryland Court of Appeals: Case 1 and Case 2. After graduating law school, Mr. Bark decided to move to Longwood, Florida.

Criminal Defense Attorney Matthews R. Bark

The reason for the move: While in law school, Mr. Bark took his last winter break by visiting family and friends in Longwood, FL. He interned with a law firm, worked on a high profile case, and drove a convertible for three weeks at the end of December. Enough said. The decision was made, and he applied for a position with the Office of the State Attorney for the Eighteenth Judicial Circuit in and for Brevard and Seminole Counties. Mr. Bark was hired by the Office of the State Attorney for the Eighteenth Judicial Circuit in and for Brevard and Seminole Counties by then State Attorney Norman Wolfinger. Mr. Bark, despite living in Longwood, was asked to start his career as a prosecutor in Brevard County, which he did. After a year of working in Brevard County and living on Satellite Beach, Mr. Bark asked to be transferred to Seminole County, home, so he could be closer to his family, and he was.

While prosecuting in Seminole County Mr. Bark received Mother’s Against Drunk Driver’s Award for prosecutor of the year. Prior to that, he was recognized by Chief Lionel Cote of the Satellite Beach Police Department for his work in DUI prosecution. Also while at the Office of the State Attorney in Seminole County, Mr. Bark was given many high profile challenging cases. Cases where a teacher was accused of bringing a handgun on to an elementary school campus, where a female deputy sheriff was battered by her husband, where a 60-year-old man was accused of video recording a 12-year-old girl undressing, where a Jewish boy was arrested on Rosh Hoshana because people were illegally parked. Mr. Bark was trusted with very sensitive cases.

Due to demonstrating his talent and work ethic, the law firm of Jaeger &Blankner recruited Mr. Bark to work for them. He worked there for three years, practicing criminal defense in Brevard County, Orange County, Seminole County, Osceola County and Volusia County. Mr. Bark litigated, tried, and appealed hundreds of cases for this firm. Realizing that the size of the firm prevented Mr. Bark from developing the relationships he desired with his clients and hindered his ability to get his clients the “best” results he decided to open his own practice. Mr. Bark still maintains an excellent relationship and appreciates the work of his prior firm.

It is human nature to make accusations and to believe them without proper evidence. This has remained true from before The Salem Witch trials, and McCarthyism, just to give a couple of examples. It is my duty and honor to make sure you are not falsely accused, not wrongfully prosecuted, not overly prosecuted, and not treated unfairly or cruelly. It is my duty and honor to zealously advocate on your behalf.

Areas of Practice

1. Criminal Defense

2. Litigation & Appeals

3. Administrative Law (DHSMV)

4. State Trial Practice

5. State Appellate Practice

6. Computer Crimes

7. Internet

8. Ethics

9. Professional Responsibility

10. Mediation

11. Alternative Dispute Resolution

12. Licensing

13. Administrative Hearing & Adjudication

14. Search & seizure Protections

15. Criminal Fraud

16. Drug violations

17. Felonies

18. Sex Offenses

19. Traffic Violations

20. Grand Jury Proceedings

21. Juvenile Crimes

22. Misdemeanor

23. Parole & Probation

24. RICO Act

 

 

 

DUI/DWI

As a former award-winning DUI prosecutor, attorney Matthews R. Bark is a leading expert on how the system works.

Domestic Violence

If you've been charged with a domestic violence crime, find out what your defense attorney should be discussing with you.

Sex Crimes

The consequences of sex crime conviction can be all pervasive. We will keep your record clean and your future secure.

Drug Crimes

Getting charged with a drug crime can drastically alter your life. Learn what next steps to take now.

Gun Charges

Our razor-sharp counsel and high-quality defense make all the difference when it comes to proving your innocence.

White Collar Crime

White collar crime charges are complex. Our experience, precision and tenacity thrive at handling such cases.

500+

5 star Google reviews

17

Awards & Honors

15+

Years of experience

“Never met a more dedicated human being in my life. A great attorney who is passionate and loves what he does and will stick with you through thick and thin good times and the not good times.  Level headed and cool under pressure. If you need someone to fight for you tooth and nail. PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE.. contact  Mr. MATTHEWS BARK!” – Rori S.
David
★★★★★
May 2026
"I had an excellent experience with Matthew R. Bark Law office. From the very beginning, they treated me with professionalism, respect, and genuine care. Communication was clear and timely, and I always felt informed and supported throughout the process. Matthew Bark is knowledgeable, attentive, and truly dedicated to his clients. He took the time to answer my questions, explain everything in a way I could understand, and made a stressful situation much easier to navigate. His staff was also courteous, responsive, and organized every step of the way. I highly recommend Matthew R. Bark and his team to anyone looking for an attorney who is experienced, trustworthy, and committed to achieving the best possible outcome for their clients."
Marge M.
★★★★★
April 2026
"Matthew Bark is an incredibly smart, dedicated lawyer. He is a straight shooter. His knowledge and strategic ways of guiding us thru a place we had never been was exactly what we needed. His staff is always on point as communication is key, and they are top notch. To have a lawyer who can give you some very serious, scary, future outcomes with compassion and grace, is a combination that Mr. Bark commits to from the moment you meet him. If you find yourself or a family member in some serious hot water, Mr Bark is the only lawyer you should contact! Forever Thankful & Grateful"
Alla B.
★★★★★
March 2026
"Mr. Bark and his firm represented my son during an extremely difficult and stressful time for our family. From the beginning, he handled the situation with professionalism, urgency, and genuine care. The case involved complicated circumstances related to a health crisis, and Mr. Bark understood the importance of addressing both the legal and human aspects of the situation. He acted quickly, filed important motions, and worked hard to move the case toward a resolution. Throughout the process, he kept us informed and explained what was happening. In a situation where everything felt uncertain, that level of communication meant a lot. It was clear that he was truly advocating for his client and working to achieve the best possible outcome under very difficult circumstances. I am very grateful for the work he did and for the respect he showed our family during such a difficult time. I would strongly recommend Mr. Bark and his firm to anyone who needs a knowledgeable and dedicated attorney"
Samantha G.
★★★★★
January 2026
"I cannot thank Matthew Bark and Ethan enough for the incredible job they did handling my case. I was facing a DUI charge and felt extremely stressed and uncertain about my future. From the very beginning, their office was professional, responsive, and reassuring. Ethan was my primary point of contact throughout the entire process, and he worked tirelessly on my case. His dedication, attention to detail, and legal expertise ultimately resulted in every charge being dropped. Given the seriousness of my situation, the outcome was far better than I ever imagined and truly life-changing. They kept me informed every step of the way, and Ethan always took the time to answer my questions and ease my concerns. If you’re facing a DUI or anything else you need legal help with, I strongly recommend Matthew Bark and his firm. They delivered results I didn’t think were possible. Thank you to the entire firm and especially to Ethan for your hard work, dedication, and outstanding representation. I am truly grateful!"
Jennifer V.
★★★★★
December 2025
"I had an exceptional experience with Matthews Bark and his office. I contacted them a few weeks before Christmas to represent my boyfriend in a bond trial, fully aware of how busy this season can be. Despite the hectic time, they turned it into a remarkably positive experience. From the first interaction with Sue, who was incredibly friendly and helpful, to Troy, who patiently answered all of my numerous questions, I felt genuinely supported throughout the process. Mr. Bark's clear communication and meticulous handling of the case further reinforced my confidence. When I finally met him, his professional demeanor and considerate guidance helped navigate the complexities of the case."
Fred F.
★★★★★
May 2025
"Matthews Bark law was victorious! Both Mr. Bark and Mr. Carlos took an interest In my father’s case, and they were able to resolve his issue with the State by having the charges dropped completely. We are very grateful for all of their time and legal expertise in helping to put this issue behind us once and for all. My father and I highly recommend Matthews Bark, Esq. and Ethan Carlos, Esq.for any issues you may have with over-zealous State Prosecutors."
Deric H.
★★★★★
May 2025
"So you may have made a bad decision and you're facing some consequences. Finding the right attorney can be the difference between you spending the next few years (or longer) in prison or at home with your family. I was referred to Mr. Bark by a friend and was told his reviews call him ""Jesus"" - a bold statement. With serious charges and a real fear of the possible outcomes, I reached out to his office and ultimately agreed to a payment plan (he will work with you) and hired him to represent me. I was hoping that maybe, if I'm lucky, he would get me a lesser charge and that I would end up with probation or minimal jail time but here I sit -- all charges dropped and no information filed by the State. My friends, family and I are all stunned... ....the reviews do not lie. Don't make another bad decision -- hire Mr. Bark. Forever grateful, Deric"
Kenny
★★★★★
January 2025
"I really wish I could give Mr. Bark, Mr. Carlos and his office more stars. I had another attorney before Mr. Bark. My first attorney wasn't doing anything just the bare minimum. I had to fired my first attorney and found Mr. Bark through a recommendation. I'm really glad I hired them to take over my case. Mr. bark had one charge dropped within 1-2 months of hiring him. My first attorney couldn't even do that after a year. He was really easy to work with, affordable, willing to work with you, makes the process easy and less stressful. I can't say enough good things about him and his team. They were able to get all my charges dropped. My first attorney wanted me to take a plea deal. I would highly recommend him and his team to take care of your case. I will be recommending him to other people and if I ever need them in the future definitely will be calling them. Thank you so much!!"
Edgar M.
★★★★★
December 2024
"I am writing to express my profound gratitude to Mr. Bark for his outstanding management of my case. He consistently displayed a high level of professionalism, maintained open communication channels, and exhibited kindness throughout the entire process. He promptly addressed any questions or concerns I had, and I highly recommend his services. Following a disappointing experience with another law firm, I am extremely pleased to have entrusted Mr. Bark with my case. To anyone who may be questioning their current legal representation or seeking a reliable lawyer, I wholeheartedly endorse Mr. Bark. Thank you again for your exceptional assistance."
Norm P.
★★★★★
June 2024
"I was arrested for a DUI and Careless Driving. I was never in trouble with the law before this is my first offense. I contacted Mr. Bark best decision I ever made. Matt and Ethan guided me through this whole court process with compassion and dignity. Every time you call the office one of his staff always answers the phone and answers your questions and the communication through emails is superb. Matt got the charge for careless driving dismissed he worked with the state attorney office got me on the first time offender program. If my case went to trail I would have been found guilty by trial and had prison time so I receive a 9 month supervised probation which I’m for ever grateful. This was an eye opener experience and put me on a better path going forward. If you need a defense attorney call Bark Law best decision you will ever make."
Anna S.
★★★★★
May 2015
"I hired Mr. Barks to represent me with my DUI charges.At first I was unsure whether Mr. Barks would be able to adequately defend me. However I was quickly put at ease by his staff. Mr. Barks got may case dismissed and for that I am extreamly greatful! I would recommend Mr. Barks to any and everyone who needs an DUI attorney! His knowledge of the law is second to none. Mr. Barks works tirelessly for his clients and never seems put out when I had questions. Mr. Barks and his staff always went above and beyond and continue to do so. All of his staff is always professional and friendly and is nothing short of amazing! If you want a lawyer that will work hard for you and get you the best possible out come on your case then I highly recommend Mr. Barks to represent you, he has my highest recommendation and my eternal gratitude for all his hard work!"

Mr. Bark has witnessed many people make mistakes in their lives. He has made mistakes himself. He knows that the society we are in can lack compassion and forgiveness. The public, perhaps now more then ever with the media, form mobs, and will exhaust all resources to prosecute an individual. The talking points by politicians about such things as being tough on crime, has led to inflexible, abusive penalties for even petty misdemeanors.

Knowing the challenge that you find yourself in, Mr. Bark believes that you should not face such circumstances alone. He believes that all people are entitled to competent counsel and a zealous defense. In order to provide this service Mr. Bark has spent a tremendous amount of time and effort to perfect the required skills. He has worked in all three branches of government. The reason this is important to you is because Mr. Bark understands how laws are made by the legislative branch, how laws are interpreted by the judicial branch, and how they are enforced by the executive branch.

Contact us

Contact Us
Recent Blog Posts
Helpful Links

The information found on The Law Offices of Matthews R. Bark is for general information purposes only. Nothing on this site should be taken as legal advice for any situation or individual case. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship. 

Serving Seminole County & Orange County: Lake Mary, Maitland, Orlando, Sanford, Apopka

© 2013 - 2026 | Law Offices of Matthews R. Bark P.A. | All Rights Reserved.

407-865-8888

  999 Douglas Ave #3317, Altamonte Springs, FL 32714

Facebook-f

Sitemap